Nahariya: A Coastal Gem by the Mediterranean

• Helloשָׁלוֹם
  [shalom]
• Goodbyeלְהִתְרָאוֹת
  [lehitra'ot]
• Yesכֵּן
  [ken]
• Noלֹא
  [lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסְלִיחָה
  [selicha]
• How are you?אֵיך אַתָּה?
  [eich atah?]
• Fine. And you?טוֹב. וְאַתָּה?
  [tov. veatah?]
• Do you speak English?אַתָּה מְדַבֵּר אַנְגְלִית?
  [atah medaber anglit?]
• I don't understandאֲנִי לֹא מְבִין
  [ani lo mevin]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאֲנִי רוֹצֶה לִרְאוֹת אֶת הַתַפְרִיט, בְּבַקָּשָה
  [ani rotseh lir'ot et hataprit, bevakasha]
• I don't eat meatאֲנִי לֹא אוֹכֵל בָּשָׂר
  [ani lo ochel basar]
• Cheers!לְחַיִּים!
  [lechayim!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseאֲנִי רוֹצֶה לְשַׁלֵם, בְּבַקָּשָה
  [ani rotseh leshalem, bevakasha]

• Help!עֶזְרָה!
  [ezrah!]
• Go away!לְךָ מֵעַצַמָה!
  [lecha meatzama!]
• Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [kra lameshara!]
• Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [kra laroefa!]
• I'm lostאֲנִי אָבוּד
  [ani avud]
• I'm illאֲנִי חוֹלֶה
  [ani choleh]

• I'd like to buy...אֲנִי רוֹצֶה לִקְנוֹת...
  [ani rotseh liknot...]
• I'm just lookingאֲנִי רַק רוֹאֶה
  [ani rak roeh]
• How much is it?כַּמָה זֶה עוֹלֶה?
  [kama ze oleh?]
• That's too expensiveזֶה יְקָר מְאוֹד
  [ze yakar meod]
• Can you lower the price?אַתָּה יָכוֹל לְהוֹסִיף אֶת הַמְחִיר?
  [atah yachol lehosif et hamchir?]

• What time is it?מַה הַשָּעָה?
  [ma hashaa?]
• It's one o'clockהשעה היא אחת
  [hashaa hi achat]
• Half past (10)חֲצִי (עֶשֶׂר)
  [chatsi (eser)]
• Morningבֹּקֶר
  [boker]
• Afternoonצָהֳרַיִם
  [tzohorayim]
• Eveningעֶרֶב
  [erev]
• Yesterdayאֶתְמוֹל
  [etmol]
• Todayהַיוֹם
  [hayom]
• Tomorrowמָחָר
  [machar]
• 1אֶחָד
  [echad]
• 2שְׁתַיִם
  [shtayim]
• 3שָׁלוֹשׁ
  [shalosh]
• 4אַרְבַּע
  [arba]
• 5חֲמִשָּׁה
  [chamishah]
• 6שִׁשָּׁה
  [shishah]
• 7שֶׁבַע
  [sheva]
• 8שְׁמוֹנֶה
  [shmona]
• 9תֵּשַׁע
  [tesha]
• 10עֶשֶׂר
  [eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [eifo nimtza...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [ma haktovet?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?אתה יכול להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [atah yachol leha'ot li (al hamefah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [matay haotobus haba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [kartis (le...)]

Nahariya was founded in 1935 by a group of German-Jewish immigrants seeking refuge from the rise of the Nazi regime. The area was chosen for its agricultural potential, and the settlers initially focused on farming and citrus groves. The city's name is derived from the Hebrew word 'nahar,' meaning 'river,' referring to the Ga'aton River that runs through the town.

During the British Mandate period, Nahariya grew slowly but steadily. The town became known for its dairy farming, helping to supply milk and cheese to the surrounding region. The residents faced challenges including land disputes and conflicts with local Arab communities, but they persisted in building a thriving agricultural settlement.

In 1948, during Israel's War of Independence, Nahariya became a strategic location due to its proximity to the Lebanese border. The town was subjected to multiple attacks by Arab forces, including bombardments and attempts to cut off its supply routes. Despite these challenges, the residents held their ground, and Nahariya remained under Israeli control. This period solidified the town's place in Israeli history as a symbol of resilience and determination.

After the War of Independence, Nahariya experienced significant growth and development. The town transitioned from an agricultural settlement to a more urban environment. The construction of new housing, roads, and public facilities attracted a diverse population, including new immigrants from various countries. Nahariya became known for its beautiful beachfront and began to develop a tourism industry.

By the late 20th century, Nahariya had established itself as a popular tourist destination in Israel. Its Mediterranean climate, sandy beaches, and vibrant promenade drew visitors from all over the country and beyond. The town's hospitality industry flourished, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and cafes catering to tourists. Nahariya's attractions also include the ancient ruins of Achziv and the nearby Rosh Hanikra grottoes, further enhancing its appeal.

Today, Nahariya is a bustling city that blends its historical roots with modern amenities. It serves as a cultural hub in the Western Galilee region, hosting festivals, art exhibitions, and music events. The city is also home to educational institutions and healthcare facilities, making it a well-rounded community. Despite its growth, Nahariya maintains a unique charm with its blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into its rich history while providing all the conveniences of contemporary living.

Nahariya is located in the Northern District of Israel, along the Mediterranean coast. The closest international airport is Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, approximately 120 kilometers to the south. From the airport, you can take a direct train to Nahariya, which typically takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a bus. The Egged bus company operates routes to Nahariya from various cities in Israel.

Nahariya has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trains. The city is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a convenient option. Bicycles can also be rented for a more eco-friendly way to travel around the city.

The official currency in Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Nahariya, and currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange offices.

Nahariya is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Nahariya does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for medical emergencies, and 102 for the fire department. Nahariya has a local police station and several medical facilities, including a hospital. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are abundant and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious contexts. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Shalom' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Nahariya like a local, visit the local markets and enjoy fresh produce and traditional Israeli goods. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the city's beautiful seaside promenade. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don't miss visiting the Achziv National Park, just north of Nahariya, for a mix of history, nature, and beautiful beaches.